Fees & Costs

Before deciding to study in Australia, you need to be confident that you can cover the costs of your tuition fees, as well as living expenses. Make sure you are aware of all the possible costs of studying in Australia so that you can budget effectively.

Tuition fees

The Australian higher education system requires that international students pay their full tuition fees up front, so it is important to be well aware of the costs before applying. Some institutions may also charge for additional costs such as use of the library, laboratories and sports facilities. Contact your chosen institutions for information about their fees.

Here is a guideline of typical fees in Australia (all in AUS$ per year):

*Figures taken from Top Universities. See original article. Please note that this is a guideline only. Actual fees may vary.

Financial help and scholarships

If you are interested in studying abroad in Australia but finances are an issue, there are a number of opportunities for financial help in Australia. Scholarships are offered by institutions, the Australian government and various organisations. They may offer to pay all or part of your tuition fees, and can cover specific topic areas or levels of study. The Australian government doesn't offer scholarships to those studying English language courses, however some institutions do.

As well as scholarships for academic attainment, Australia is committed to promoting higher education for students from developing countries. These scholarships are given on the understanding that, on completing your studies, you will return to your country for at least two years and use your new skills to improve the development of your country. For more information see Scholarships4Development.

Applications for the Australia Awards for 2017 entry opens on 1st February 2017 and closes on 30th April 2017 for the following countries: Bhutan, Cambodia, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Laos, Maldives, Myanmar, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Sri Lanka & Vietnam. Other countries are also included: see the full list on the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade website.

Living costs

You should consider what your living costs in Australia will be, especially as you must show evidence of your ability to support yourself whilst studying. Visa applications require you to prove that you have access to at least $19,830 per year (the recommended minimum cost of living for one year in Australia), or that your parents or spouse are willing to support you and that they earn at least $60,000 per year. Additional funds will be required for family members (see the Australian Government Department for Immigration and Citizenship for details).

However, be aware that this is an indicative figure only and your living costs may be higher or lower, depending on your location, lifestyle and hobbies. Your living expenses are likely to include rent (see our Accommodation page for average costs), bills, clothing, food, toiletries, books and course materials, travel and socialising. You can compare the cost of living in different cities in Australia on Expatistan.com.

Melbourne and Adelaide have a cheaper cost of living compared to Brisbane, Perth & Sydney. Image from expatistan.com